Making your outdoor space eco-friendly can be a very rewarding project. The first thing that visitors will see when they arrive at your home is your garden, so it’s the most important aspect that needs the most attention. It can completely change the way your home looks and can help to create a great first impression with some improvements.
You don’t need to be an expert to make a big difference, as even novice gardeners can make significant improvements. Many sustainable gardening practices are simple to implement and offer long-term benefits for both your garden and the environment, as well as making your outdoor space look better. There are plenty of ways you can improve your garden, from creating DIY compost bins to effective lawn maintenance.
This guide will provide you with practical ideas for turning your garden into a sustainable haven that you can be proud to call yours. Continue reading to find out more about the best garden improvements you can do while remaining eco-friendly.
Eco-Friendly Garden Improvements
Install Rain Barrels
Installing a rain barrel is one of the easiest and most effective ways to make your garden more sustainable. It allows you to collect and store rainwater from your roof. This provides a readily available source of water for your plants that will last longer and save you from having to use up more water from taps or hosepipes. This helps you lower your water bill and gives your garden a natural water supply that many plants prefer when it comes to growth.
You’ll need to select a spot on a level surface next to a downspout for optimal water collection. The downspout is where you’ll divert the water from your roof into the barrel, which makes this process easier and allows for overflow. If you want extra sustainability, source local materials to create your barrels.
Create DIY Compost Bins
Creating a compost bin yourself is a great way to reduce household waste and improve your soil, and it can be done with simple materials you might already have. To create this, all you should need is 3 or 4 wooden pallets that are heat-treated, a few screws or bolts and hardware cloth to prevent pests. You can also use a garbage can for this. You can drill holes all over the sides and bottom of the can for drainage and aeration.
Recycling kitchen scraps and yard waste can be great to turn into a nutrient-rich soil amendment for your compost bin. This will give you a base to make your compost bins more effective.
Lawn Maintenance
Your lawn will likely take up most of your garden, so ensuring that it’s in prime condition should be near the top of your priority list. There are several ways that you can do this sustainably. Even though a Stihl Lawn Mower will need to use electricity, there’s no getting around that if you want to efficiently cut grass. The good news is that these lawnmowers are designed to reduce energy consumption compared to alternatives.
The best time to water your lawn is early in the morning. This allows the water to soak into the soil before the sun evaporates it and gives the grass blades time to dry. It’s also known to help prevent fungal diseases when maintained like this.
Permeable Paving
The surface of permeable paving has open joints filled with gravel. Beneath this surface, a crushed stone reservoir collects and stores the water. The water then slowly seeps into the soil below, a process that helps to replenish groundwater and filter out pollutants. This method mimics the natural water cycle, which is disrupted by conventional surfaces.
You could also choose locally sourced white garden pebbles in your outdoor space that are placed in positions that will encourage rainwater flow.
Plant a Tree
Deforestation is a big problem worldwide, and although planting a tree won’t have any impact on this, it can be a positive step in reducing your carbon footprint. Planting a tree correctly is essential for its long-term health and survival, as when planted wel,l it will grow faster and be more resilient to disease, drought and pests. Research which tree species thrive in your local area and plant one in your garden.
Examine the root ball of the tree regularly. If you see roots circling the outside of the ball, gently loosen them with your fingers or a small trowel. This encourages the roots to grow outward into the new soil.
Create a Pollinator Garden
Creating a pollinator garden is a fantastic way to support local biodiversity while adding beauty to your outdoor space. Bees, butterflies, hummingbirds and other pollinators are important for a healthy ecosystem. The key to a successful pollinator garden is to offer a variety of plants that bloom at different times of the year, ensuring a continuous food supply from spring through fall.
You should also provide a water source and nesting habitats, such as a shallow birdbath that will make your garden come to life. Making this type of sustainable space will benefit both your garden and the wider environment, as more wildlife feel comfortable in your outdoor space.